Afenifere Criticizes Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Citing Economic Hardship

 The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization Afenifere, on May 29, 2025, issued a scathing critique of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as a “national nightmare” due to its economic toll on Nigerians.

In a statement from Akure, National Publicity Secretary Jare Ajayi expressed support for Tinubu’s long-term vision but condemned the immediate impact of policies like fuel subsidy removal and naira floatation, which have driven inflation to 40% and pushed 40% of Nigerians below the $1.90 daily poverty line. Afenifere urged Tinubu to halt price hikes in electricity and other services, warning that further increases would “squeeze citizens out of breath” before promised benefits materialize.

Afenifere acknowledged achievements like increased non-oil revenue and the ₦70,000 minimum wage but argued these are overshadowed by rising living costs, with food prices doubling since 2023. The group highlighted lopsided appointments favoring Yoruba regions, noting 60% of key positions in finance and security are held by southwesterners, fueling perceptions of a “Yoruba presidency.”

Afenifere’s Abagun Kole Omololu rejected this label, insisting Tinubu was elected democratically, but called for inclusive governance to counter ethnic tensions. The statement follows Afenifere’s earlier caution against ethnic conspiracies to deny Tinubu a second term, as revealed by U.S.-based activist Sandra Duru. Political observers see Afenifere’s critique as a balancing act, supporting their kinsman while addressing public discontent. The group’s call for relief measures, like subsidized transport and food distribution, reflects growing pressure on Tinubu to deliver tangible results as 2027 looms.